nIn line with agriculture, fish farming must be given interest free loan from cooperative banks as well as rebate in electricity tariff, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said on Saturday.
He was addressing the Fishermen Convention organized by the Chhattisgarh Machuwara Samaj at his official residence to mark the World Fisheries Day 2020.
Chhattisgarh State Fishermen Welfare Board Chairman M.R. Nishad and other dignitaries were present.
Baghel handed over motorcycle-cum-ice box to 15 fishermen and auto-cum-icebox to two fishermen and 10 fishermen were given the first instalment of `40,000 cheque under the Fishermen Housing Scheme, said an official communication.
Government schemes should bring positive changes in the lives of the people. Even after being covered under various schemes and aids, the economic status of fishermen had not recorded any change, he said.
Therefore, the need of the hour is that fishermen communities should adopt scientific modes of fish farming and ensure better marketing management.
The state government can initiate ensuring interest free loan and rebate in power tariff like the farmers, said the Chief Minister.
On demand for reservation for the community, Baghel said it is a long process. The government would take an initiative but this is the phase of privatization as all public sector units are being handed over to private hands, he said, calling it a loss to the nation.
Agriculture and Water Resources Minister Ravindra Choubey said each year 1,000 youths of the community will be given ice boxes with motorcycles as aid. In line with Tendu leaves collectors, the government will try to provide a dividend of the profit.